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The driver of a Nissan Skyline who was last night fighting for his life in Middlemore Hospital was on the road with three bald tyres and one "space saver" wheel when he lost control, said police.
Emergency services were amazed anyone survived the crash in South Auckland early yesterday.
The driver remained in a critical condition while his two passengers were admitted with serious injuries. All were freed by firefighters.
Papakura Fire Station officer Phil Beech told the Herald on Sunday the car lost control on a gentle left-hand bend in Takanini.
"They struck a gumtree - it appeared to be growing out of the centre of the car."
